Pin A quick and flavorful way to revive leftover salmon and rice using a clever microwave steaming trick, finished with fresh toppings for a balanced meal.
I first tried this method on a busy weeknight when we had leftover grilled salmon and some cold rice in the fridge. The ice cube steaming hack truly kept everything moist and tasty, and I was amazed at how fresh the bowl tasted after just minutes in the microwave.
Ingredients
- Cooked rice: 1 cup, white or brown, cold leftovers
- Cooked salmon: 1 cup, flaked into large pieces
- Ice cubes: 2 for gentle steaming
- Soy sauce: 2 tablespoons, or tamari for gluten-free
- Sesame oil: 1 teaspoon
- Avocado: 1, sliced
- Cucumber: 1, thinly sliced
- Pickled ginger: 2 tablespoons
- Toasted sesame seeds: 1 teaspoon
- Scallion: 1, finely sliced
- Optional: chili flakes or sriracha
Instructions
- Layer bowl:
- Place leftover rice in a microwave-safe bowl and top evenly with flaked salmon.
- Add ice cubes:
- Place 2 ice cubes on top of the rice and salmon.
- Cover loosely:
- Cover the bowl loosely with parchment paper or a microwave-safe plate.
- Steam in microwave:
- Microwave on high for 2 to 3 minutes until the ice cubes melt and the rice and salmon are heated through and moist.
- Drizzle & arrange:
- Remove from microwave and drizzle with soy sauce and sesame oil.
- Add toppings:
- Arrange avocado, cucumber, and pickled ginger on top.
- Finishing touches:
- Sprinkle with sesame seeds and scallion. Add chili flakes or sriracha if desired, then serve immediately.
Pin This hack became our family’s favorite way to make sure no rice or salmon ever went to waste. My kids love adding their own toppings to personalize each bowl.
Required Tools
Microwave-safe bowl, microwave, sharp knife, cutting board
Allergen Information
Contains fish, soy, and sesame. Check ingredient labels carefully and use tamari for a gluten-free option.
Nutritional Information
Each serving provides about 410 calories, 18 g fat, 36 g carbohydrates, and 27 g protein for a balanced meal.
Pin Enjoy this quick bowl whenever you need a speedy, satisfying lunch or dinner—it’s amazing how revived leftovers can taste new.
Recipe FAQ
- → How does the ice cube trick help?
Placing ice cubes on top ensures gentle steaming, keeping rice and salmon moist instead of dry after microwaving.
- → Can I use other proteins instead of salmon?
Yes, cooked fish or tofu work well in place of salmon, making the bowl adaptable to your leftovers.
- → What toppings add crunch and flavor?
Avocado, cucumber, pickled ginger, scallion, sesame seeds, and optional chili flakes or sriracha create fresh texture and zest.
- → Is this suitable for gluten-free diets?
Substitute tamari for soy sauce to make this meal gluten-free. Always check ingredient labels for hidden gluten.
- → What tools are needed?
You only need a microwave-safe bowl, microwave, sharp knife, and cutting board to prepare this meal.
- → Can I add extra vegetables?
Absolutely! Edamame, shredded nori, or carrot ribbons add nutrition and color to the bowl.